Philosophical Problems of Physical Culture

Abstract

In this article the author develops some reflection on problems related to physical culture, showing that the present-day state of sciences of physical cul ture requires more extensive studies than so far and a many-sided approach to theoretical problems without which these sciences will not be in a position to supply correct answers to many detailed problems.

From among philosophical problems connected with physical culture the author sets apart as especially important that of human motor activity, drawing attention to the fact that physical culture is above all a certain form of motor activity the purpose of which is improvement of the human motoric system by means of exercises and play involving movement. In this connection he points to many efforts made so far and to a variety of research trends that have taken shape and declares that these studies have not brought sufficiently satisfactory results. Many controversial opinions and attitudes exist and also many unknown quantities that will have to be solved.

Another important problem is the role and significance of the human body in the civilizational process. In this respect a remarkable evolution of opinions has recently taken place. In discussions on these problems participated above all philosophers but there are certain indications that theoreticians of physical culture have also joined the discussion, which is understandable since it is a matter that concerns precisely the latter.

The last problem dealt with in this article is play as a specific form of hu man self-expression. The author perceives in dialectics of work and play, in their interaction and at the same time contrast as well as the consequences stemming from it, the very essense of research tasks, the solution of which should not be indifferent for the sciences of physical culture, since contemporary sport is nothing else but the most universal play involving movement.